Ward has released its annual list of 10 Best Engines of the year. To be eligible for consideration, the magazine states that “each engine must be available in a regular-production U.S.-specification model on sale no later than first-quarter 2012, in a vehicle with a base price below $55,000″.
In deciding on the winners, Ward’s editors spent October and November driving 36 vehicles, 34 of which featured new or significantly upgraded powerplants. Of special note is how many of the engines came equipped with direct fuel-injection technology (7 out of 10). Moreover, gasoline engines dominated the list, with only one hybrid powertrain (featured in the Infiniti M35h) landing a spot. Not a single electric or diesel powertrain made the list. Without further adieu, the list of the top 10 best engines of 2012:
THE WINNERS AND THE APPLICATIONS TESTED:
- 3.0L TFSI Supercharged DOHC V-6 (Audi A6)
- 2.0L N20 Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (BMW Z4/528i)
- 3.0L N55 Turbocharged DOHC I-6 (BMW 335i coupe)
- 3.6L Pentastar DOHC V-6 (Chrysler 300S/Jeep Wrangler)
- 2.0L EcoBoost DOHC I-4 (Ford Edge)
- 5.0L DOHC V-8 (Ford Mustang Boss 302)
- 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC I-4 (Buick Regal GS)
- 1.6L DOHC I-4 (Hyundai Accent/Kia Soul)
- 2.0L Skyactiv DOHC I-4 (Mazda3)
- 3.5L DOHC V-6 HEV (Infiniti M35h)
“With so many engines featuring gasoline direct-injection and forced induction, we’re pleased to have a list that is rich in technology,” commented Drew Winter, editor-in-chief of WardsAuto World magazine. “Additionally, every engine reinforces the idea that even fuel-efficient vehicles must be fun to drive.”
Ford and BMW came out with the most awards, each taking home two. The rest — GM (with Buick), Chrysler/Jeep, Audi, Hyundai/Kia, Mazda and Infiniti — took home one each.
